I have found, however, if I take the time to gently move her towards more risk and show her the numbers then she is more willing to embrace the risk - aside from risking anything regarding this one house we paid off.

Capital improvements should be an expense of the land owner as part of a lease option, otherwise you risk throwing that money away if you do not exercise the option.If the Seller's big concern is taxes go with a straight Seller Financing arrangement as it will provide the same outcome. 

Because I know our nervous system is in direct correlation with our gut health, I will make sure to continue eating healthy and exercising daily so I may always feel energized and ready to take on whatever challenges I need to face.2.

Health & Exercise Science

This was a cheap way to get in, learn the property management ropes gently, since I lived on site. 

If he doesn't want to be tied down, add a clause that the seller can accept a better offer and cancel your option up until you notify him in writing that you intent to exercise.3.

I have been curious about this as well,  especially since I am a woman....wondered if it would make a difference...I have a friend who has had a few rentals in the past and he felt that his big and tall frame and his look made a intimidating factor...he also was quite handy on beign able to fix things...where as I am everything the opposite...so I have also exercised the idea of pretending to be some sort of manager....I like this question.

The reason I’m saying this is that maybe 5 years ago I went through a weird exercise of “How much cheaper would it be to live in...” with a couple of cities.

If you could get a 75/25 mortgage (just for a theoretical exercise) you have $30K debt per property.

You should live by the letter of your lease and local landlord laws, but there is some room to remember that your tenants are your customers. how much of that room you wish to exercise is your decision though.